Limassol

Limassol is the second largest city of Cyprus. However, it's the most prestigious city among youth and largest business center of the country. This is not surprising, as the capital Nicosia is located in the problem area and belongs to two countries, while Limassol is located on the sea shore and is popular not only among bankers, but also among tourists.

Despite the fact that Limassol as a resort is less known than Paphos or Larnaca, we liked it. We came by bus from Paphos to the Old Port. This is a major stop for tourists, all tours begin from this point.

Limassol has a well preserved Old City, the best in the country. Most tourists and restaurants are concentrated near the medieval castle (XIII century), which is now a museum. Food prices here are higher the average. While walking in the old city, we found a lot of local inexpensive restaurants that looked far more interesting. In one of them, "Cuckoo's Nest", we had a dinner. Take a look at the interior.

At the moment (2013) a large-scale reconstruction of the waterfront is being held. In 2-3 years it will the the best in the country. And after the ambitious Limassol Marina project comes to an end, the city will be one of the best in the Mediterranean. Pictures of what you should expect in a few years can be viewed here: link 1, link 2, link 3. The works of artists will stand on the waterfront.

There is a beach in the center of Limassol, but it doesn't look very well, so, if you want to have a beach holiday, you need to go the Ladies' Mile (nearest), Curium or Pissouri beaches.

Getting there: Limassol has the best position on the island. You can reach it in 90 minutes from any other city. A taxi from Larnaca airport costs 50-55 euros. List of buses between Limassol and other major cities as well as airports can be found here.